Austria

Getting married in Vienna - a blend of culture, history and elegance for the discerning few

Those who dare to diverge from the trodden path will find in Vienna a wedding destination that marries grandeur with authenticity, tradition with upbeat modernity. Nestled in the heart of Europe, the city is a warm embrace to every kind of couple, celebrating love in all its forms.
Whether you envision a grand gala amidst opulent settings or an intimate exchange with the Danube whispering in the background, Vienna ensures that your ceremony is as unique as your love story. 

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Vienna

VIENNESE CHARM

Horse-drawn carriages

The city of waltz
and violins

Historic venues  with incredible architecture

Romantic even during winter

World-class cuisine

in Vienna

Vienna offers all the options for a marriage ceremony, even for non-reisdents. Whether you envision a lavish legal ceremony, a heartfelt religious rite, or a bespoke symbolic exchange, anything is possible in the city of Vienna. 

Read more about how to decide on the type of ceremony on our BLOG.

MARRIAGE CEREMONIES

EXPLORE ceremonies

From grand palaces and historic churches, to modern chic venues and vineyards, venue choices for a wedding ceremony are varied as they are enchanting.

And unlike many other destinations, Vienna stands out with its straightforward process, which we can guide you through at every step. In most cases, your presence isn't mandated until the very day you say
'I do.'

+ Legal ceremony

+ Religious ceremony

+ Symbolic ceremony

Religious Ceremony

in Vienna

For those dreaming of walking down the aisle in the solemn ambiance of a beautifully ornate church, and those who resonate with religious traditions, Vienna offers a plethora of venues that resonate with both spiritual depth and architectural grandeur. 

While most churches in Vienna are Catholic or Protestant, the city is a tapestry of diverse religious heritages, offering an abundance of venues and rites, catering to various confessions. Beyond the spiritual resonance, couples have the luxury of choice when it comes to architectural allure. Whether you're drawn to the ornate intricacies of Baroque or the timeless gravity of Gothic, Vienna offers the perfect sanctified backdrop for every union.

In Vienna, the separation of church and state mandates that couples must first undergo a legal marriage before they partake in a religious ceremony. We can certainly explore your preferences – whether you'd like to have your legal ceremony in Vienna or complete it back home prior to your destination wedding here. Either way, we're here to guide and advise on the best approach for your unique journey.

+ Religious ceremony Faq

+ Legal ceremony

+ Symbolic ceremony

+ Reach out

Symbolic Ceremony

in Vienna

A symbolic ceremony is a heartfelt representation of your commitment without any legal bindings. An officiant, after immersing themselves in your unique love story, crafts a bespoke script that truly mirrors your journey together.

This is by far the most flexible type of ceremony. Many couples gravitate towards this option, as it grants them full liberty in tailoring the ceremony's ambiance, sequence, melodies, rituals, locale, setting, and timing to their exact vision and desires. 

Couples who choose a symbolic ceremony during their destination wedding in Vienna will typically complete the legal formalities in their home country, either prior to or after their trip.

+ Symbolic ceremony Faq

+ Legal ceremony

+ Religious ceremony

+ Reach out

Slow down, you crazy child...
When will you realize
VIENNA waits for you?

- Billy Joel -

Our Viennese Portfolio

Get inspired by some of the most beautiful events we planned in this beautiful city and dive into valuable tips about planning a destination wedding in Vienna. 

#HEWJOURNAL

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in Vienna

Vienna, the heart of Europe's rich history, offers a variety of breathtaking venues that are worthy of a journey across continents for those dreaming of a fairytale wedding. Enveloped in authentic architecture, most of these locations are conveniently situated in the city center, surrounded by numerous hotels within walking distance. 

wedding Venues

EXPLORE Vienna Venues

If you dream of tying the knot in a setting reminiscent of royalty, Vienna offers grand historic palaces such as the illustrious Schloss Schönbrunn and the majestic Belvedere. For art enthusiasts, the Museum of Art History or the Albertina stand as a testament to the city's rich cultural tapestry and serve as a grand backdrop for exchanging vows.
And for those who fancy a touch of rustic charm, Vienna’s hilltop wineries present a picturesque setting for pre and post-wedding events.

In Vienna, every venue tells a story, inviting you and your loved ones to be part of its timeless tale.

Wedding itinerary ideas in Vienna Austria

This is how your wedding experience could look like in Vienna

These are merely some ideas. There is a multitude of options and we will explore them together, to customize the most exquisite and elevated experience for you and your guests.

Arrivals & Check-in

The Royal Experience

Itinerary Idea 1

The couple and the wedding party arrive and check-in to one of Vienna's picture-perfect hotels in the city center. Welcome boxes with Viennese goodies, welcome letters, custom gifts and itineraries await in the hotel rooms. Depending on the time of arrival, the day can continue with a casual standing cocktail at the hotel or another closeby location for all guests, or with a private dining experience just for the closest family.

Day 1

The Art & Dine Welcome Experience

The morning and afternoon are reserved to relaxation and exploring the city. Lunch for the closest family and friends can be a great opportunity to explore another interesting area and culinary delights.
The bride will allocate around 3 hours to the bridal hair and make-up trial and getting restyled for the welcome dinner. 
Last guests arrive in Vienna.
The evening starts with welcome drinks and a private guided tour of the Museum of Art History, continuing with a seated dinner, speeches and a surprise waltz lesson.

Day 2

The Pampering

While the bride and bridesmaids indulge in a series of pampering spa treatments at one of the top wellness centers in Vienna, followed by a lavish luncheon and a ladies' only boudoir photo shoot, the gentlemen accompany the guests on a private guided tour of the city center. The evening is reserved to a pre-wedding shoot and a romantic Michelin starred dining experience for the bride and groom, before the big day.

Day 3

The Wedding

After a relaxed morning of preparations, guests are welcomed at a luxurious palace, such as the Liechtenstein City Palace or Garden Palace, Palais Coburg or Schloss Schönbrunn etc. The bride arrives in a horse-drawn carriage or a luxury limousine, and it is time for the long-awaited moment of the I DO's, with classical music played by a string quartet. Followed by cocktails, an exquisite dinner and the party of a lifetime.

Day 4

The Farewell Brunch

Embarking on an oldtimer tram in the city center, the journey will continue with a hangover treat and a tour along the city center of Vienna, ending in one of the winery districts, where guests will enjoy traditional Austrian goodies and local wines at an authentic Heuriger (tavern) - such a great opportunity to reminisce over the incredible festivities of the past  few days.

Day 5

The Prague Welcome

The Christmas Experience

Itinerary Idea 2

Depending on the time of arrival, the day can continue with a guided tour of the historical center and/or a private dining experience for all guests or just for the closest family. The second day is all about soaking in all the beauty of the city and its idyllic Christmas markets, culminating with a late luncheon in a historical location. Up next: a short drive to a beautiful chateau a few miles away from Prague, which will be the perfect place to dive into local cuisine, art and culture.
On the third day, pampering, relaxation, fine dining and entertainment will set the tone for what's to come. 

DayS 1-3

christmas wedding in Vienna

After a cosy breakfast on the 4th day, a private transfer takes you to Vienna, where everyone checks into their hotels. The afternoon is free to stroll around the Christmas markets and sip on Glühwein. 
The 5th day is dedicated to the rehearsal dinner, starting with a guided tour of the city center in an oldtimer tram, enjoying the sparkling fairy lights and some Austrian Brezels and bubbly, on the way to a traditional Austrian Heuriger (tavern), for an authentic local dining experience. 
The 6th day will be the party of a lifetime, with the main wedding day taking place in a historical palace in Vienna city center, such as the Liechtenstein City Palace, Palais Coburg, Palais Daun-Kinsky or Schloss Schönbrunn etc.

Days 4-6

from Budapest with love

After a late breakfast on day 7, a private transfer will take you to Budapest, just in time to check into your hotels and enjoy a casual dinner.
The next day will be all about strolling through the streets of Budapest and will be ending with the last event of the wedding festivities: your very own Christmas market, where guests can pick their farewell gifts, and then enjoy a wine and dine evening at an iconic location.
Departures start on day 9.

Days 7-9

Completely customizable

We recommend dates between December 1-15 for this type of itinerary, if you wish to experience the Christmas markets. 
This itinerary is simply a general idea of what could be done for a charming European winter wedding experience. It can be completely customized in terms of type of events, locations etc. For example, we can reduce it to Vienna and surroundings only, if you'd rather spend more time in a single country.

Notes

They created a masterpiece: making it possible for us to marry in an exquisite church, and then celebrate our love with our family and closest friends in an actual palace!
 

- Jessica & Joe -

from New York, USA

The expressions and reactions of our families and friends are forever engrained in our minds.
We have never felt so much happiness, so much love. It was pure contentment. Utter bliss.

- Jessica & Joe -

from New York, USA

Vienna has now become one of our top memories and it really comes down to your amazing knowledge, experience and taste that made this happen.

- A&S -

from Israel

So breathtakingly beautiful, I could not have dreamed of more! I’m certain Irene is the best international wedding planner in Vienna.


- Jenny & Daniel -

from London, UK

The wedding was above all expectations, every professional who was recommended by Irene was beyond perfection, kind and warm, paying attention to all details.

- Raquel & Diego -

from Madrid, Spain

Ready to learn more about planning a wedding in Vienna?

Let's create something spectacular together!
Your dream wedding is only a conversation away. Reach out now and let's start turning your dreams into reality!

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Answers

Yes, you certainly can have a religious ceremony in Vienna - and all Austria - even if you are not residents and have a different citizenship than Austrian. 
Many couples choose Vienna for its romantic and historic settings for their destination weddings.

01

Can we have a religious ceremony IN VIENNA if we don't live there?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

Vienna, known for its rich cultural and religious heritage, offers a wide range of options for religious wedding ceremonies. The city is predominantly Catholic, but it is also home to several other religious communities, like: Protestant (primarily Lutheran and Reformed), Orthodox (including Russian, Romanian, Serbian, Greek), Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Anglican, Methodist, etc.

Each religious institution in Vienna has its own requirements and traditions for wedding ceremonies. It's important to consult with the specific religious authority or a knowledgeable wedding planner to understand the nuances and prerequisites of organizing a wedding ceremony in accordance with a particular faith in Vienna.

02

What type of religious ceremonies can we have in Vienna?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

Yes, you can.
As long as one of you is Catholic, you can have a Catholic ceremony.
03

Can we get married in a Catholic church if one of us is not baptized catholic?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

Some churches may allow you to have a symbolic ceremony that is not religious in nature.
However, the easiest way to do that is to book a non-consacrated chapel or church. These are usually part of a historical venues, like palaces or villas.
We can help find a suitable venue that aligns with your preferences. 

04

Can we get married in a Catholic church without having a religious ceremony?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

Generally, a religious ceremony in Vienna is recognized worldwide, but the procedures may vary depending on your denominations. You should verify with your local church to understand any specific requirements.

05

Will our marriage be recognized in our home country?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

No. In Austria, the church does not have the authority to issue legal marriage certificates.
The legal ceremony is separate from the religious ceremony.

Should you wish to have a religious ceremony in Vienna, or anywhere else in Austria, you will first have to get legally married. It is completely up to you if you do the legal ceremony back home or at your destination. Should you choose to have both ceremonies in Vienna, we strongly recommend to plan them on different days.

06

Will we also be legally married after our religious ceremony in Vienna?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

The required paperwork varies by religion and individual circumstances. Common documents include birth certificates, baptismal certificates, legal marriage certificate.

For a Catholic ceremony, you will also have to attend a marriage preparation course at your local parish. After completion, your local priest will issue the necessary documentation and mail it via the Bishop Office in your home country, to the Bishop's Office in Vienna, who will forward the information to the officiating priest.

07

What paperwork do we need for a religious ceremony in Vienna?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

Not necessarily. If the documents are issued in English or the specific language of the relevant church, it won't be necessary to translate them into German. 

Should translations be necessary, we can assist with that too.

08

Do we need German translations of our documents?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

Many priests can officiate the ceremony in English, or at least parts of it. 

Should you need the ceremony to be officiated in a language that the resident priest does not speak, a collaboration with a second priest or interpreter can be discussed. 

Another discrete option to make sure all guests understand the order of service is to provide printed multi-lingual ceremony programs.

09

Do we need an interpreter during the ceremony?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

Most religious ceremonies require witnesses.
The specific number and requirements can vary, which we can clarify for your chosen ceremony.
10

Do we need witnesses for our religious ceremony in Vienna?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

We can assist with the paperwork and guide you through the registration process.
We will also coordinate all organizational aspects with the church and priest. 

However, your presence will be most likely required 
  • for at least 1-2 online meeting(s) with the officiating priest, so you get to know each other and discuss the order of service
  • for a short in-person meeting at the church, a few days before the wedding - occasion which we will use for a full ceremony rehearsal too.
11

Can you complete the registration on our behalf?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

Like every plan - the sooner you start, the better.
We recommend to start 9-18 months in advance. 

Ceremony slots are quite limited and fill up pretty quickly, especially at the most popular (picturesque) churches in Vienna during high season (May to September).

For this reason, we advise starting the planning process early. This ensures we can reserve your preferred ceremony time and complete all preliminary arrangements.

12

WHEN can we book a slot for a religious ceremony IN VIENNA?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

This varies greatly depending on the venue and religious institution. 
For example, for a Catholic ceremony, the most common times are between 12:00-3:00 pm.

Once we have some basic details regarding your denominations, preferred dates, venues and timelines, we will get in touch with potential churches and present you all available options.
13

What days and times are possible for the ceremony?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

Deadlines can vary depending on religious institution.
While many churches don't even impose a certain deadline, it is of course essential to submit the paperwork before the wedding day. 

Considering that the entire process of issuing and mailing the documents through all the official clerical channels, we recommend to start the process as early as possible - for your own peace of mind.
14

What are the deadlines for paperwork submission?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

We recommend starting at least a year in advance, as this allows ample time for paperwork, bookings, and personalizing your ceremony.
15

When should we start planning our religious ceremony in Vienna?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

The length can vary, but most religious ceremonies last between 40 minutes and an hour.
16

How long does the religious ceremony typically take?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

Absolutely! Music is a beautiful way to personalize your ceremony, and we can help arrange musicians as per your religious customs and personal preferences, in alignment with the officiating priest.
17

Can we incorporate music into our ceremony?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

Not necessarily. Depending on the religion, ceremonies can also be conducted in other sacred spaces or venues approved by the religious authority.
18

Does a religious ceremony have to take place in a church?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

Yes, guest readings can be a meaningful addition. In some religions, they are actually a standard part of the ceremony, while in others they are subject to the approval of the officiating priest.
19

Can we incorporate readings by guests into the ceremony?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

Costs can vary depending on the religious insitution and chosen church. 
While some churches do not have a set fee for the ceremony - in which case a donation of your choosing is expected - others have a clear list of fees for the rental, service and cleaning, which can start from around 500 €.
20

What costs should we expect for a religious ceremony in Vienna?

Religious Ceremony in Vienna

Answers

Yes, you certainly can have a symbolic ceremony in Vienna. In fact, you can have a symbolic ceremony anywhere in the world, even if you are not residents of that particular country.

This is the most flexible type of ceremony and comes with no restrictions in terms of nationality, residence, paperwork, place or time of ceremony. Therefore, many couples opt for a symbolic ceremony during their destination wedding (before or after having their legal marriage ceremony in their home country), to avoid all the hassle of legal paperwork, or simply to be able to create the wedding of their dreams at the destination they love most. Especially when a legal ceremony is not possible at the destination, due to residence requirements (like for example in France or Spain), a symbolic ceremony is the perfect solution.

01

Can we have a Symbolic ceremony IN VIENNA if we don't live there?

Symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

You can choose anyone to officiate, from a professional celebrant to a friend or family member. 

We will be happy to recommend the best suitable celebrants in Vienna, or arrange for the right officiant from abroad, to meet any special language and cultural requirements.
During the planning process, we will work closely with the chosen celebrant and musicians, to align all key moments of the ceremony.

In some cases, especially for elopements, Irene also acts as an officiant, creating a personalized ceremony script and flow and conducting the ceremony on the wedding day. 

02

Who will officiate our symbolic ceremony?

Symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

A symbolic ceremony is  - just as its name says - simply symbolic. It is a non-legally binding exchange of vows. It is purely ceremonial and does not change the legal marital status of the couple. These ceremonies offer the most flexibility. You can personalize the content, format, and you can choose any location, date, time and officiant. Moreover, there is no need for legal documents or a licensed officiant.
Couples often use symbolic ceremonies to express their relationship in a unique and personal way, incorporating elements like handfasting, sand ceremonies, or other personal rituals.

A legal or civil ceremony - as described in the section Legal Ceremony - is one where the marriage becomes officially recognized by the law. It changes the legal status of the couple to "married". It requires adherence to the legal requirements of the jurisdiction where the ceremony takes place, including specific paperwork, and a licensed officiant - in Vienna, an official of the local registry office.
In Vienna, the ceremony needs to be held in a designated location - as described, at one of the local registry offices or at an authorized external venue.
The ceremony often includes the reading of legal vows, and while some personalization is possible, there are usually more constraints compared to a symbolic ceremony.

A religious ceremony - as described in the section Religious Ceremony - is one conducted in accordance with the practices and beliefs of a religious faith. The ceremony follows the traditions and rituals of a specific religion, which can include prayers, readings, songs, and other religious practices. Typically, the ceremony is led by a religious leader like a priest, rabbi, imam, etc. Often held in places of worship, such as a church, synagogue, mosque, or temple, though some religions may allow for other locations.
03

What is the difference between a symbolic, legal and religious ceremony?

Symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

Some churches may allow you to have a symbolic ceremony that is not religious in nature.
However, the easiest way to do that is to book a non-consacrated chapel or church. These are usually part of a historical venues, like palaces or villas.
We can help find a suitable venue that aligns with your preferences. 

04

Can we have a symbolic ceremony in a church?

Symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

Since a symbolic ceremony does not have any legal implications - does not change your marital status under the law - but is merely symbolic, you will not be legally married after such a ceremony. 

In order to obtain a marriage certificate - thus be legally married - you will need to have a legal (civil) ceremony either in your home country, or at the destination of your wedding. 

05

Will our marriage be recognized in our home country?

Symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

No. Since a symbolic ceremony does not have any legal implications - does not change your marital status under the law - but is merely symbolic, you will not be legally married after such a ceremony.

In order to obtain a marriage certificate - thus be legally married - you will need to have a legal (civil) ceremony either in your home country, or at the destination of your wedding. 

06

Will we also be legally married after our symbolic ceremony in Vienna?

symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

No legal paperwork is required for a symbolic ceremony. 

07

What paperwork do we need for a symbolic ceremony in Vienna?

symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

Certainly! Many couples choose a symbolic ceremony to renew their vows or to celebrate with friends and family in a different location, after they have signed the legal certificates in their home country.

08

Can we have a symbolic ceremony if we are already legally married?

symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

Not necessarily. 
There are not many English-speaking celebrants in Vienna, but we are able to connect you with the best. Should other languages be required, we will most certainly find the perfect match in our database or by conducting further research. 

Another discrete option - in case there are guests who do not speak English for example - is to provide printed multi-lingual ceremony programs.

09

Do we need an interpreter during the ceremony?

symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

No, you don't need any, but can definitely assign one or more, if you wish to.

10

Do we need witnesses for our symbolic ceremony in Vienna?

symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

The options are vast – from historic palaces and gardens to modern venues or even an outdoor setting, or a non-consacrated chapel. Unlike legal ceremonies, there are no restrictions on location for symbolic ceremonies.
11

Where can we have a symbolic ceremony in Vienna?

symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

There are no official deadlines set by any institution in case of a symbolic ceremony. The only things to take into account are the availability of the celebrant, musicians and venue, as well as taking enough time to create the order of service.

Like every plan - the sooner you start, the better.
We recommend to start 9-18 months in advance. 

12

WHEN can we book a slot for our symbolic ceremony?

symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

There are no official date and time restrictions set by any institution in case of a symbolic ceremony. The only things to take into account are the availability of the celebrant, musicians and venue, as well as the timing that makes the most sense for your flow of events.
13

What days and times are possible for the ceremony?

symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

There are no official deadlines set by any institution in case of a symbolic ceremony. 
However, we recommend to start as early as possible and have everything finalized and aligned with all involved vendors and wedding party members at the latest two months before the big day.
14

What are the deadlines for the creation of the ceremony script

symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

Of course, you can incorporate elements from your religious or cultural backgrounds. Symbolic ceremonies offer the flexibility to blend traditions in a way that is meaningful to you.
15

Can we include religious or cultural elements in our symbolic ceremony?

symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

The duration is entirely up to you, but most symbolic ceremonies last between 20 to 40 minutes. This can vary based on the elements you choose to include.

Some factors that may influence the duration of the ceremony are:
  • if the ceremony is conducted only in one or multple languages,
  • the number and length of songs
  • if you include a ritual involving multiple, or even all guests
  • if you include speeches or readings by guests.
16

How long does a symbolic ceremony typically take?

symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

Absolutely! Music is a beautiful way to personalize your ceremony, and we can help arrange musicians as per your preferences, and plan them for key moments of the ceremony, in alignment with the celebrant.
17

Can we incorporate music into our ceremony?

symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

The key is in the personalization – crafting vows that are deeply personal, choosing readings and music that resonate with you, and creating a setting that reflects your love story.
Including a ritual and actively involving your guests into the flow of the ceremony will add priceless memories. 

You might consider special rituals like sand blending, handfasting, or a unity candle. Live music, poetry readings, and even thematic elements that reflect your journey as a couple are also popular choices.
18

How can we make our symbolic ceremony feel as meaningful as a legal wedding?

symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

Absolutely! Involving loved ones can make your ceremony more personal and memorable. They can participate in readings, rituals, or even as honorary officiants.
19

Can we incorporate readings by guests into the ceremony?

symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

Costs can vary depending on the celebrant you will choose. 
Good English-speaking celebrants in Vienna usually have fees between 1000-2500 €.
20

What costs should we expect for a religious ceremony in Vienna?

symbolic Ceremony in Vienna

Big thanks for the imagery on this page to

Molly Carr - Luciana Varga - Maria Reva - Katka Koncal - Melanie Nedelko - Monro Photography - Nikol Bodnarova